A joint grant partnership between the new Bethel Musculoskeletal Research Center (BMRC), the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and the Orthopaedic Research Society (ORS) was announced Friday at the 70th Annual ORS Meeting, held in Long Beach, California. These grants, equaling $50,000, will support early- and mid-phase clinician scientists in pursuing and continuing careers in translational research.

Many post-doctoral researchers leave academic careers within five years of completing their PhDs. This departure is due, in part, to the challenges of obtaining funding for their research interests. The BMRC/ORS research grants will offer two levels of support – one for postdoctoral scholars or medical residents and one for junior faculty members.

“As we embark on this partnership, we recognize the critical role funding plays in retaining talent within the academic realm,” Dr. Joon Y. Lee, Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery and Executive Director, BMRC said.  “The BMRC/ORS research grants aim to break down barriers, providing invaluable support to postdoctoral scholars, medical residents, and junior faculty members, empowering them to make lasting contributions to musculoskeletal research.”

The BMRC, created in 2023, enables the University of Pittsburgh to elevate its study of musculoskeletal disorders by attracting and retaining top scientists to advance leading-edge research.

ORS, an international research society focused on orthopaedics and musculoskeletal care, is celebrating 70 years of supporting basic, translational and scientific research.

For more information on the grants and how to apply, visit https://www.bethel.pitt.edu/funding/